Final Thoughts
You’ve completed Module 5. Congratulations!
LPDs are in crucial leadership roles but often find themselves stuck in a “middle management” position that requires them to navigate both up and down the hierarchy, as well as with other units on campus. To do so requires them to build trust across the program and beyond, to develop effective communication skills, and to understand their role in the larger structure of the institution. It is important to keep in mind that as programs grow or shrink, roles may need adjustment. For instance, adding a new coordinator for online courses might become necessary if enrollment in virtual classes increases significantly, or consolidating coordination of different levels may be needed if enrollments are declining. LPDs who engage in ongoing program assessment and build flexibility into program structures enables nimble adaptation to changing needs and challenges. Through regular program evaluations (see Module 3), the LPD can gather insights into how well the current structure is working, what changes might be necessary, and what opportunities there may be across campus.
To further hone your skills, check out the other modules in this series, which can be completed in any order that suits you: